Heat Pumps vs Furnaces


Heat pumps and electricity costs

Heat pumps work like a refrigerator in reverse, and as refrigerators most of them consume electricity (Gas-Fired Heat Pumps are the exception).

Heat pumps huge advantage is in their performance. They can provide up to three, four or five times the amount the electricity they consume. In other words: they are much more energy efficient than other conventional electric air conditioning appliances, namely furnaces and central air conditioners powered by electricity.

See:
Are Heat Pumps suitable for my home?
Heat Pumps vs Central Air Conditioning


Air Heat Pumps and the Climate Issue

In moderate climates heat pumps are undoubtedly more energy-efficient (and a better ecological solution) than air conditioners or furnaces. But in cold climates, heat pumps – more precisely air heat pumps - aren’t such a good solution. Below 30º F (0º C) air heat pumps demand supplementary heat, with the incurring costs.

If temperatures in your region are often below that limit, or if your climate involves very high temperatures, consider...

- Ground (Geothermal) heat pumps;
- High performant air heat pumps: see New Heat Pumps Technology and Features


Heat Pumps and energy sources